PUPPIES!

Your puppy’s first few grooming visits lay the groundwork for how they’ll feel about being groomed for life. With gentle handling and gradual introductions, most dogs quickly learn that grooming is simply part of their normal care routine - and can even be enjoyable.

At Doggy Dooz, we follow a structured puppy program designed to build confidence step by step. Each visit is tailored to your puppy’s comfort level, helping them feel secure while learning that grooming is a positive experience.

Here’s what our puppy program looks like:

Step 1: First Introduction

IDEAL AGE: 12 - 16 WEEKS (VACCINATIONS ARE COMPLETE)

Your puppy’s first visit is short and sweet, about 5 to 10 minutes. The goal is simply to help them feel safe in a new environment. We’ll let them explore, meet the team, and take in the sounds and smells of grooming at their own pace.

We use gentle praise, toys, and treats to create a positive first impression. If your puppy has a favourite snack, bring it along so we can make their first visit even more rewarding. Although there is no charge, please do ring and book this session!

Step 2: Handling and Familiarisation

IDEAL AGE: 13 - 17 WEEKS (WEEKLY OR FORTNIGHTLY VISITS)

Once your puppy is feeling more confident, we’ll begin light handling. This includes gentle touches on the paws, ears, and face, and letting them hear the clippers or dryers from a comfortable distance.

We might do a small tidy-up or nail trim if needed, but the focus is on calm handling and plenty of praise. These early experiences help your puppy understand that grooming is safe and nothing to worry about.

Step 3: Bath & Tidy

IDEAL AGE: 16 WEEKS (4 MONTHS) TO 6 MONTHS (IT’S GOOD TO REPEAT THIS STEP TWICE IF YOU CAN!)

By the third visit, most puppies are ready for their first bath and tidy-up. This visit includes:

  • A warm bath with a gentle, puppy-safe shampoo and conditioner

  • A soft towel dry and gentle fluff dry

  • A tidy around the face, feet, and hygiene areas

We take things slowly, keeping each session calm and reassuring. Every puppy is treated individually, with time for rest, comfort, and cuddles as needed.

Step 4: The First Full Groom

IDEAL AGE: 6 MONTHS TO 8 MONTHS. DEPENDING ON COAT AND BEHAVIOUR

Once your puppy is confident being bathed, brushed, and handled, they’re ready for their first full groom. This includes a complete tidy or clip, always guided by your preferences and your dog’s comfort.

Every puppy develops at their own pace. We focus on progress, not perfection, to help build lifelong trust in the grooming process.

Between Visits

You can help at home by practicing gentle handling and short grooming sessions. Lightly brush your puppy for a few minutes each day, touch their paws and ears, and reward calm behaviour. Download the Grooming Desensitisation Checklist here (or pick one up in store) to begin getting ready at home from day 1.

If you’re walking past Doggy Dooz, stop in for a quick hello and a treat. Little visits like that help your puppy remember that grooming is a positive, friendly experience.

Our Promise

At Doggy Dooz, every puppy is treated with patience, respect, and kindness. We use gentle handling, praise, and play to build confidence and make every visit a happy one.

We’re not just grooming your puppy, we’re helping them learn to love being cared for ♥